Why Study Abroad?

In today's complex world and competitive job market, the decision to study abroad may be one of the best decisions you ever make. Study abroad is an opportunity to learn from new or different perspectives, to absorb another culture and gain an appreciation for another way of life. No wonder most students who study abroad rate their experience as one of the most important of their undergraduate career.
 
Academic Courses: Study Abroad  GE20590SA /GE31010  
3 Credits 
This course is designed for students who wish to study abroad. Students will travel between the spring and summer quarters and will return to campus to complete a final exhibition project during summer quarter. The course will consist of lectures, activities, research, and discussions designed to examine the culture, history, and aesthetics of the city or cities chosen for the study abroad experience. Students will also be encouraged to explore issues of identity and place, ideology (values, norms, customs), society (conformity/autonomy, gender, class), and structure (religious, political, economic) as they share, analyze and reflect upon their experiences throughout the course.

2009 SUMMER PROGRAM IN FLORENCE, ITALY
Arrive June 19, 2009 – Depart July 9, 2009

For centuries the Tuscan capital of Florence was the undisputed center of European artistic culture. Between studies, you can explore the elegant streets and visit famous museums such as the Uffizi and the Accademia. On sunny afternoons, you can browse the wonderful open-air markets. Finally, as the sun sets, you can enjoy a meal of wholesome Florentine soup, handmade pasta and, of course, an elaborate dessert. For those who love the outdoors, Tuscany possesses an extraordinary variety of seacoasts, mountains, rivers and plains. Tuscany's ever-changing landscape makes even a short journey an adventure!

Excursions Include:  Siena and San Gimignano (Full Day), Venice (Three days/Two nights) and Rome (Four days/Three nights). You may also choose to use your free weekends for independent travel to Europe's great cities. Student favorites include Paris, Amsterdam, Barcelona, Dublin and the French Riviera.